Orange Cardamom Rice Pudding

Orange Cardamom Rice Pudding is a rich, creamy dessert infused with the warm, floral notes of cardamom and the bright zest of fresh orange. This recipe combines the classic comfort of rice pudding with unique, aromatic flavors, making it a memorable dish for both casual meals and special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• A refreshing twist on traditional rice pudding with citrus and spice.

• Creamy, indulgent, and easy to prepare with pantry staples.

• Can be adapted for dairy-free or vegan diets.

• Tastes delicious served warm on cold evenings or chilled as a light summer dessert.

• Stores well, making it a great make-ahead treat.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1½ cups cooked long-grain rice

• 1 cup whole milk

• 1 can (13.66 oz) full-fat coconut milk

• ½ cup heavy cream

• ¼ cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)

• ½ teaspoon ground cardamom

• 1 pinch of salt

• ⅓ cup golden raisins

• Zest of 1 large orange

• ⅓ cup shredded coconut

• ⅓ cup shelled pistachios, chopped

Directions

1. Place the cooked rice, whole milk, coconut milk, and heavy cream in a medium saucepan.

2. Heat over medium flame until the mixture begins to boil gently, stirring occasionally.

3. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 15–20 minutes, stirring often, until thick and creamy.

4. Add the sugar, ground cardamom, salt, raisins, and orange zest. Stir to combine.

5. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.

6. Remove from heat and stir in the shredded coconut.

7. Serve warm, or cool to room temperature and refrigerate until chilled.

8. Garnish each serving with chopped pistachios before serving.

Servings and timing

• Yield: 4 to 6 servings

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cooking time: 25 minutes

• Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Dairy-Free: Use only coconut milk or replace milk and cream with almond or oat milk.

• Vegan: Use plant-based milks and sweeten with maple syrup or agave instead of sugar.

• Extra Spices: Add cinnamon, nutmeg, or saffron for a deeper flavor profile.

• Fruit Additions: Stir in chopped dried apricots, dates, or fresh berries.

• Nut Options: Replace pistachios with almonds, cashews, or walnuts.

• Texture Change: For a thicker pudding, cook longer or reduce the milk slightly.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

• Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or coconut milk, stirring until creamy. Alternatively, reheat individual servings in the microwave, adding a little liquid to loosen the texture.

FAQs

What type of rice should I use for rice pudding?

Long-grain rice is ideal, but basmati or jasmine rice can add extra fragrance.

Can I make this pudding without dairy?

Yes, simply use coconut milk, almond milk, or oat milk for a fully dairy-free version.

How sweet is this pudding?

It’s mildly sweet, but you can adjust sugar to your liking or use honey, maple syrup, or agave.

Do I need to soak the raisins beforehand?

It isn’t necessary, as they will plump up while cooking, but soaking them can make them extra soft.

Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Yes, but it will be chewier and may take longer to cook down.

Can I serve this dessert cold?

Absolutely. It tastes wonderful chilled, especially in warmer weather.

How thick should the pudding be?

It should coat the back of a spoon. Remember, it thickens further as it cools.

Can I add vanilla extract?

Yes, a teaspoon of vanilla adds another layer of flavor that pairs well with cardamom and orange.

How do I prevent the pudding from sticking to the pot?

Stir frequently while simmering and use a heavy-bottomed saucepan to distribute heat evenly.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, simply double all ingredients. Cooking time may increase slightly, so stir often to avoid burning.

Conclusion

Orange Cardamom Rice Pudding is a delightful combination of creamy texture, warm spices, and citrus brightness. With its simple preparation and versatile serving options, it’s a dessert you’ll return to again and again. Whether served at a festive gathering or enjoyed as a comforting homemade treat, this recipe is sure to impress.